The Great Outdoors

Have your cameras and phones ready, you never know what you might see at Lynde Shores. As a key stopover point for migrating waterfowl and shorebirds, Lynde Shores Conservation Area is the extremely popular for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The conservation area houses several looping trails including the Chickadee Trail which is ideal length for little ones and is generally wheelchair and stroller friendly. 

At Lynde Shores, you can participate in outdoor activities throughout the year including hiking, cycling, snowshoeing, and birdwatching. Dogs are permitted on leash along the waterfront trail.

Amenities include a canoe and kayak launch, four marsh viewing platforms, on-site pay and display parking, and accessible washrooms. 

Climb the Ancient Geology of the Lake Iroquois Shoreline at Heber Down Conservation Area. The conservation area preserves a significant portion of the historic Iroquois Beach and is home to wildlife and plants not common in Durham Region.

Heber Down is perfect for the urban adventurer. Enjoy activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, fishing, and nature walks. More than 5km of trails run through the area including an accessible maple leaf shaped trail at the main entrance.

Amenities include off-leash dog pen, group picnic areas, picnic shelter rentals, accessible trails, pay and display parking on-site, and accessible washrooms. Pets are permitted on leash throughout the conservation area. 

Whitby has over 100 beautiful parks with several amenities including playgrounds, splash pads, picnic areas, tennis courts, and sports fields. Explore our parks and trails today. While you're on the trails, be sure to listen to local artists with Sound Tracks.

The Town of Whitby is a bronze-level bicycle friendly community that supports a network of bike routes, shared roads, multi-use paths, and trails. The Town is home to a 13km bike friendly Waterfront Trail and houses a stretch of the Greenbelt Cycling Route. Plan your next outdoor bike adventure using our interactive cycling map. Looking for more cycling inspiration? The Cycling in Ontario Guide has got you covered!

Spending the day with your four-legged friend? Explore one of Whitby's off-leash dog parks:

• Cochrane Street North off-leash dog park (located within the Heber Down Conservation Area)
• Jeffery Street South off-leash dog park (located next to Lynde Shores Conservation Area)

Learn more about Whitby's off-leash dog parks including code of conduct for dog handlers. 

Interested in spending a day by the water? Discover activities and amenities available at Whitby's Waterfront.

Experience some arts and culture while you explore the outside along Whitby's Arts Trail. Visit outdoor art works and murals or stop in to see one of our galleries, artists studios, or maker shops.

Looking for some outdoor winter fun? Visit Lakeridge Ski Resort or Dagmar Ski Resort in Uxbridge, just 20 minutes northwest of Whitby.